The project, which has been in the works for about two years, is a joint effort by the SFMTA and SFPUC to both calm traffic in the area and install technologies to better absorb rainwater and prevent flooding along the Wiggle. It would involve corner sidewalk bulb-outs at various points along the popular bike route, coordinated signals on Divisadero to improve the flow of traffic, a raised crosswalk at Steiner and Hermann to enhance pedestrian safety, and permeable pavement to allow rainwater to soak into the ground instead of the sewer system, among various other changes in the area.

But there’s one specific issue that appears to be holding up the project.

According to a recent SFMTA document, left turns would be prohibited on Divisadero at the following streets “to reduce clogging and prioritize through-traffic”:

Haight (southbound)

Hayes (both directions during peak hours only)

McAllister (both directions during peak hours only)

That proposal has apparently riled some neighbors, and the Lower Haight Merchants and Neighbors Association (LoHaMNA) is currently refusing to back the plan due to the turn restrictions. The project was originally scheduled to head to the SFMTA Board of Directors next Tuesday, May 19th for final approval. While the SFMTA hasn’t announced why the project has been struck from next week’s agenda, the timing indicates that the left-turn issue may be a factor. …(more)